Arsenal secured a crucial 1-0 win over Chelsea at the Emirates Stadium, thanks to Mikel Merino’s first-half header from a corner. The goal, Arsenal’s first from a set-piece since January, proved enough to overcome a lackluster Chelsea side missing key player Cole Palmer.
Chelsea, winless in seven consecutive away league games, struggled to create chances and failed to register a single touch in Arsenal’s penalty area for much of the match. Goalkeeper Robert Sánchez was at fault for Merino’s goal, failing to react quickly enough at the near post.
Despite Arsenal’s profligacy in front of goal, with Gabriel Martinelli and others wasting opportunities, the Gunners held on for their first league win in four games. Manager Mikel Arteta remained optimistic about their title hopes, urging his team to keep fighting.
Chelsea’s woes deepened as they continue to struggle for form, with Enzo Fernández and Reece James unable to match Arsenal’s intensity. The result leaves Chelsea under pressure in the race for the top five, while Arsenal stay within touching distance of league leaders Liverpool.
